Nearly every industry has been affected by digital and mobile technologies, and many have been upended. This has forced companies to determine how to rapidly access the technologies that can advance their business. For most, the answer is to buy rather than build.

This article addresses three global trends which propelled much of the recent M&A activity: hot high-tech markets, companies seeking to adapt to a “new normal” in their sector or industry, and consolidation along with the hunt for innovation.